Aston Martin says the production version of the AMV8 Vantage concept "is destined to become the most significant model in the company's 89-year history." When you plan to go head to head with the Porsche 911, it better be. At least this new Aston looks the part; in fact, it's one of the most handsome sports cars we've seen in a long time, featuring a long hood, short overhangs, a wide track, muscular body work, and traditional Aston design cues such as the large front grille and side strakes. "AMV8 Vantage features many of the design cues that have become the basic DNA for all Aston Martin models," said design director Henrik Fisker. "It was important to ensure that the car's design was pure, clean and modern, while at the same time you should be able to put your hand over the front nose badge and still recognize the car as an Aston Martin." When the production version of the AMV8 Vantage goes on sale sometime in 2005, it will be the first model to utilize Aston's VH (Vertical/Horizontal) Platform Strategy, which will be used for all future Aston Martin models. The rear-wheel-drive AMV8—powered by a 4.3-liter V-8—features a 50/50 weight distribution and is constructed from aluminum and composites. The decadent interior is adorned in several shades of leather as well as anodized aluminum. The production AMV8 Vantage will be hand-assembled at Aston Martin's production facility at Gaydon, in the United Kingdom.

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